“I failed exceptionally fast” – Saatchi exec

The executive chairman of Saatchi & Saatchi has officially resigned, admitting he’d embarrassed the firm after his sexist comments sparked international backlash.

“My miscommunication on a number of points has caused upset and offence, and for this I am sorry,” said Kevin Roberts, in a statement released late last night.

“I have inadvertently embarrassed Saatchi & Saatchi and Publicis Groupe, two companies I love and have been devoted to for almost 20 years,” he continued.

The controversy began after Roberts told Business Insider that he did not believe a lack of women in senior roles was a problem. He claimed many women had a “circular ambition to be happy” rather than “vertical ambition.”

The British-born exec said his motto had always been “fail fast, fix fast, learn fast” and he admitted that he had “failed exceptionally fast” during the recent interview.

Roberts – who was due to retire in May 2017 – confirmed he would be leaving on September 1, 2016.
“I have expressed my regret and apology to the companies for the furore my remarks and language stimulated, and I extend this to colleagues, staff and clients,” he added.

There is some truth in his comments despite them coming across as non-pc. Reaching the top of the ladder is not everyone's idea of success. Success should not be derived by one's job title but by the satisfaction obtained from pursuing opportunities both inside and outside of work regardless of gender.